Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe special is the harmony of flavors. The tangy balsamic marinade gives the chicken a delightful depth, while the herbed mashed potatoes provide a creamy, comforting side. It’s a great choice for family gatherings or those cozy dinners at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, dinner can be ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, and it’s a great way to get them excited about veggies with those roasted tomatoes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken earlier in the day, making dinner prep effortless later on.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of grilled chicken and creamy mashed potatoes is truly irresistible.
• Versatile: You can easily adapt it based on what you have in your pantry or garden.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Gather these items to create a meal that will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced

For the Herbed Mashed Potatoes

• 3 pounds yellow potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• ½ cup warm whole milk or half-and-half
• 5 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, cooked until soft and mashed
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or chives)

For the Roasted Tomatoes

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Serving

• Fresh herbs, chopped
• Thick balsamic glaze
• Flaky salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or firm tofu for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a new twist on the classic.
• Add veggies: Toss some bell peppers or zucchini onto the grill alongside the chicken for an extra healthy boost.
• Make it spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade if you love heat!

How to Make Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl or resealable bag, mix together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup (or brown sugar), mustard, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Add in your chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—or even overnight if you have time! This step is key; marinating allows all those wonderful flavors to soak into the chicken.

Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spread cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet and toss them with olive oil, sliced shallot, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 18–20 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely touch to your dish.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Place yellow potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water seasoned generously with salt. Bring to a boil and cook for around 20 minutes until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking potatoes this way ensures they’re perfectly soft for mashing!

Step 4: Mash Until Creamy

Drain those lovely potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, warm milk (or half-and-half), sour cream (or yogurt), mashed garlic from before, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy—don’t forget to stir in those fresh herbs! Keeping this mixture warm will ensure it’s ready when you’re plating.

Step 5: Grill Your Chicken

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from its bath and grill each piece for about 4–6 minutes per side until fully cooked through and lightly charred. Let them rest afterward; this helps keep them juicy!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Spoon herbed mashed potatoes onto plates first; then top with sliced grilled chicken. Add a generous spoonful of roasted tomatoes alongside it all! Finish it off with fresh herbs sprinkled on top along with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and some flaky sea salt plus freshly ground black pepper.

There you have it—a heartwarming meal that will surely impress anyone lucky enough to be at your table! Enjoy every bite of this Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes

Cooking can be such a joy, especially when you have a few handy tips to make your meal even better!

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in more flavorful and tender chicken.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption, helping to avoid dryness.

• Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix and match fresh herbs in your mashed potatoes. This can enhance the flavor profile and make the dish uniquely yours.

• Rest the Chicken: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for 8–10 minutes after cooking helps redistribute its juices, making every bite juicy and delicious.

• Customize Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some roasted garlic or different cheese varieties into the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes

Presentation is key when it comes to serving this delicious dish! Here are some ideas to make it look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a vibrant touch and enhances freshness.
• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: A drizzle of thick balsamic glaze not only adds visual appeal but also complements the flavors beautifully.
• Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky salt right before serving enhances all the flavors and adds a delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crunchy texture and fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich chicken and creamy potatoes.
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This colorful salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor that complements both the chicken and potatoes nicely.
• Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned kale chips are a great crunchy side that offers a healthy twist while balancing out the richness of the meal.

These serving suggestions will not only elevate your dining experience but will also impress your family or guests! Enjoy every bite of this wonderful meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week without the stress of daily cooking. You can easily store or freeze portions, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the grilled chicken and herbed mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the grilled chicken and mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Warm mashed potatoes in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use another type of vinegar instead of balsamic for Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar; however, it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Balsamic gives a unique sweetness that complements the dish beautifully!

How do I make Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade or serve with a spicy sauce on top.

Can I substitute different herbs in the herbed mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill, rosemary, or thyme based on your preferences. Each will give a unique twist to your mashed potatoes.

What should I serve with Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread for soaking up any extra balsamic glaze.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes! It’s not only a delightful combination of flavors but also an excellent way to gather loved ones around the table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep for busy weekdays, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!